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Many people work in jobs that have them standing, walking, and even running on their feet for long periods on surfaces that may be slippery. In such cases, having footwear with non-slip soles can help to prevent pain, injury, and falls. The Centers for Disease Control has found that trips, slips, and falls are the third most common type of non-fatal workplace injury. Experts say that a slip-resistant shoe can help to reduce the chances of injury on the job. These shoes should have rubber soles and deep treads that improve the grip on the floor. Rubber offers more friction between the shoe and the floor, which decreases the chances of a slip or fall. Grooves in the sole of the shoe offer further gripping protection. But not all grooves are created equal. A pattern with grooves that are parallel can be less effective than one with a crisscross pattern. To find out more about the proper footwear for your job, it is suggested that you meet with a podiatrist. 

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Slamming and smashing our feet into the pavement as we skateboard can take its toll on the ankles and feet. The most frequent foot and ankle problems skateboarders encounter are heel bruises, flat feet, and ankle rolls. If you skateboard and want to continue doing this for some time, it is important to take care of your feet. Wash, dry, and moisturize them daily. Wear properly fitting skate shoes and only wear them for skating. When the feet are sore, take a break, rest, and even soak the feet. Skate shoes do not provide the best support in terms of padding and arch support. Extra support in the heel of skate shoes may help prevent heel bruises. A looser-fitting shoe and gel inserts might help with foot pain caused by flat feet. If you are into skateboarding and are experiencing foot problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment options.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Wednesday, 08 March 2023 00:00

Common Foot Bone Injuries

With 26 bones in the foot, sustaining an injury to any of them is not uncommon. The most common bone-related foot problems involve the tarsal bones, the metatarsal bones, and the phalanges. The tarsal bones include the talus or ankle bone, the calcaneus or heel bone, and the bones that form the arch of the foot. These are the three cuneiforms, the cuboid, and the navicular. The metatarsals are five long bones of the foot that connect the heel to the toes. The phalanges, or toes, are made up of several bones each. The big toe is the most prominent bone and the workhorse of the phalanges. Bunions, arthritis, and gout are common bone-related foot conditions that involve the big toe. Hammertoe, a muscle and ligament imbalance, usually occurs in the second or third toe. Heel spurs and plantar fasciitis involve the calcaneus, or heel bone. A condition called sesamoiditis affects two tiny free floating bones at the base of the big toe. Stress fractures most commonly occur in the metatarsal bones from overuse. If you are experiencing pain in any of the bones of the feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Newcomers to the world of podiatry might wonder whether ingrown toenails are, in fact, different from a toenail fungus. Despite their similarities and the fact that both conditions impact the toenails of the feet, they are two distinct conditions of the foot. An ingrown toenail is a condition that develops when the side of the toenail essentially grows into the skin surrounding the nail, producing redness and inflammation. Toenail fungus, however, is a fungal infection where the texture and quality of the nail itself are impaired. Individuals with toenail fungus might notice that their nail has become brittle in texture or yellow in color. If you want to learn more about the differences between these two distinct foot conditions or are seeking treatment, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today. 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ingrown Toenail Care
Tuesday, 21 February 2023 00:00

What Are the Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot?

Athlete’s foot is a skin infection that is caused by a fungus that lives in moist environments such as locker rooms and shower room floors. The symptoms patients often experience can consist of itching, burning, and cracked skin between the toes, and the bottom of the feet may itch too. Athlete’s foot is contagious, and it is advised to wear water shoes or flip-flops to help prevent the fungus from spreading when visiting the public places mentioned. It can help to keep the toenails short and properly trimmed. Additionally, it is suggested to refrain from sharing shoes, socks, and towels. Washing and drying the feet daily may help to control the symptoms of athlete's foot followed by applying foot powder inside of the shoes. If you have developed this condition, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer you additional preventive methods to avoid getting athlete’s foot.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

  • Hydrate your feet by using lotion
  • Exfoliate
  • Buff off nails
  • Use of anti-fungal products
  • Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about How to Deal with Athlete's Foot
Tuesday, 14 February 2023 00:00

Heel Pain Has Many Causes

Heel pain is usually felt on the underside of the heel or behind it. While rarely indicative of anything serious, heel pain can severely impact normal functioning, especially walking and exercise. Heel pain can also become chronic if ignored. One of the most common causes of heel pain is Plantar Fasciitis, a condition caused by overstretching or tearing of the plantar fascia or the band of connective tissue that runs from the heel to the toes. With this affliction, pain, stiffness, and inflammation are typically worse in the morning, upon arising, and activity is resumed. Sometimes using an over-the-counter insole and stretching exercises will be enough to counteract heel pain. However, there are other things that could cause such pain and it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment that is right for you.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Heel Pain
Tuesday, 07 February 2023 00:00

When Should I See a Foot Doctor?

It is common to take your feet for granted. They are involved in so many aspects of daily life that experiencing foot aches and pains are a common occurrence. In many cases, the cause is temporary and therefore easy to ignore. But somewhere along the line, a foot, toe, or ankle problem can become too painful or uncomfortable to heal on its own. Neglecting pain, swelling, and wounds can cause these problems to grow into far more serious conditions. That is when it might be a good idea to visit an expert for help. Podiatrists are foot doctors who specialize in the care of the feet, toes, and ankles. A number of conditions call for examination and intervention from a podiatrist. Among them are extreme pain, neuropathy, discoloration, deformities like bunions or hammertoes, and difficulty walking or bearing weight. A podiatrist can perform an examination of the area of the foot, ankle, or toe that is causing the problem. Then an appropriate course of treatment can be prescribed. If you are experiencing foot pain or other problems, please consult a podiatrist today.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

  • Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
  • Use innovative methods to treat conditions
  • Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
  • Correct walking patterns and balance
  • Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

 

Read more about What is a Podiatrist?
Sunday, 05 February 2023 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Tuesday, 31 January 2023 00:00

Foot Injuries While Fishing Are Possible

Those passionate about fishing love the fresh air, exercise, and excitement it brings. However, there are dangers involved in fishing, including injuries to the ankles and feet. The most common fishing injuries that can impact the lower extremities are falls, sprains, and breaks. Those who fish from a boat can sustain injuries, such as spraining an ankle or breaking a foot, from getting in and out of the boat. Rocks, mud, and getting 'sea legs' from sitting on the boat too long can all contribute to entrance and exit spills. Tips for preventing these types of falls include wearing hard-soled shoes with closed toes and using the sides, tubes, or gunnels of the boat to properly balance while getting on and off the boat. One should not try to jump from the boat because the force of jumping can push the boat away, causing a loss of balance. If you fish for sport or fun and have sustained an injury to your feet or ankles, a podiatrist can help diagnose the problem and provide treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Plantar Fasciosis
  • Achilles Tendinitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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